Key Takeaway
Expert guidance on no-fault insurance medical necessity disputes in NY. Learn how stipulated evidence can defeat claims. Strategic trial advice. Call 516-750-0595.
In New York’s no-fault insurance system, battles over medical necessity often turn on the quality and presentation of evidence. A compelling 2012 appellate decision demonstrates how strategic stipulations and proper use of expert reports can lead to victory even without live witness testimony, fundamentally changing how we approach medical necessity defenses.
The All Boro Psychological Services Case: A Masterclass in Trial Strategy
All Boro Psychological Servs., P.C. v GEICO Gen. Ins. Co., 2012 NY Slip Op 50137(U)(App. Term 2d Dept. 2012)
Point I: “The case was tried on December 8, 2010. At trial, plaintiff and defendant stipulated in writing to plaintiff’s prima facie case, defendant’s timely denials, admission of the expert witness disclosure package, which included the peer review report and medical records reviewed, and that the only issues for trial were lack of medical necessity and fees not in accordance with fee schedules.”
Point II: “Plaintiff rested, relying on the stipulation that it had established its prima facie case. Defendant’s witness was unavailable, and defendant moved to adjourn the trial to a later date to call a witness. Since defendant failed to show good cause, the application to adjourn was denied (NY City Civ Ct Act § 1302 ). Plaintiff then moved for a directed verdict on the ground that defendant was not ready to proceed and could not establish its defenses (CPLR 4401). Relying on the stipulation, defendant opposed plaintiff’s motion and cross-moved for a judgment in its favor on the ground that it established timely and proper denials, and that the peer review report and medical records were in evidence.”
(At this point court cites to the Nir test of medical necessity)
“The court acknowledges there are circumstances where a live witness would be required to embellish defendant’s position. Here, the court finds defendant was not required to present an expert witness to testify at trial, particularly since plaintiff did not offer a witness or any evidence whatsoever on rebuttal. Accordingly, the court finds defendant successfully proved lack of medical necessity for four of the tests administered and the related explanation and interpretation of results.”
A true trial on papers… Remember when the Court in S.J. Pahng, M.D., P.C. v Progressive Northeastern Ins. Co., 2008 NY Slip Op 51537(U)(App. Term 2d Dept. 2008) granted judgment in favor of Defendant based upon a deposition of Defendant’s expert? Interesting nuance.
Understanding New York’s No-Fault Insurance System
The Foundation of No-Fault Coverage
New York’s no-fault insurance system requires all motor vehicle insurance policies to provide Personal Injury Protection (PIP) benefits, covering:
- Medical expenses up to $50,000
- Lost earnings (80% up to $2,000/month for 3 years)
- Essential services ($25/day for one year)
- Death benefits ($2,000 for burial expenses)
For residents of Nassau County, Suffolk County, and the five boroughs of New York City, understanding these benefits is crucial when dealing with accident-related medical treatment.
The Medical Necessity Standard
Under New York law, no-fault insurers must pay for treatment that is:
- Medically necessary for the treatment of injuries
- Causally related to the motor vehicle accident
- Reasonable in cost and scope
- Properly billed according to fee schedules
The All Boro Case: Strategic Lessons
The Power of Well-Crafted Stipulations
The All Boro decision demonstrates the strategic value of comprehensive stipulations. By agreeing to certain facts upfront, both parties:
- Streamlined the trial to focus on key disputed issues
- Eliminated unnecessary proof of undisputed elements
- Created a clear framework for decision-making
- Reduced trial time and costs
The stipulation covered:
- Plaintiff’s prima facie case
- Defendant’s timely denials
- Admission of the expert witness package
- Identification of sole trial issues
When Expert Reports Stand Alone
Traditionally, medical necessity challenges require live expert testimony. However, All Boro established that under certain circumstances, properly admitted peer review reports can be sufficient evidence without live witnesses.
The court found defendant’s peer review report adequate because:
- It was properly disclosed in the expert witness package
- Medical records were included for context
- Plaintiff offered no rebuttal evidence or witnesses
- The stipulation admitted the documents into evidence
Trial Strategy in No-Fault Medical Necessity Cases
Preparing for “Trial on Papers”
The All Boro decision shows how effective preparation can create winning conditions even without live witnesses:
Pre-Trial Preparation
- Comprehensive peer review by qualified experts
- Detailed analysis of medical records
- Clear documentation of deficiencies
- Strategic stipulations to focus on key issues
Expert Report Requirements
- Thorough record review
- Specific findings regarding necessity
- Clear explanations of medical deficiencies
- Compliance with disclosure requirements
The Adjournment Trap
All Boro also illustrates procedural pitfalls. When defendant’s witness was unavailable, the court properly denied an adjournment for failing to show good cause. This highlights the importance of:
- Proper scheduling of expert witnesses
- Backup plans for witness unavailability
- Understanding local court adjournment standards
- Good cause requirements under NY City Civil Court Act § 1302
Medical Necessity in Different Treatment Types
Psychological Testing Services
The All Boro case specifically involved psychological services, where necessity challenges often focus on:
- Appropriateness of testing battery
- Relationship to accident complaints
- Duration of treatment recommendations
- Objective findings supporting continued care
Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation
Similar principles apply to PT/OT services:
- Progress documentation
- Objective improvement measures
- Treatment goal achievement
- Modification based on response
Diagnostic Testing
For diagnostic services like MRIs and CT scans:
- Clinical indications for testing
- Symptom correlation with proposed imaging
- Previous test results and progression
- Treatment plan modification based on results
Frequently Asked Questions About Medical Necessity
Q: Can insurance companies deny treatment without a live expert witness?
A: Yes, as All Boro demonstrates, properly prepared and disclosed peer review reports can be sufficient to establish lack of medical necessity, especially when the provider offers no rebuttal evidence.
Q: What should I do if my treatment is denied for lack of medical necessity?
A: You should review the denial explanation, gather supporting medical records, and consider obtaining an independent medical examination or expert review to challenge the denial.
Q: How detailed must peer review reports be to stand alone at trial?
A: Reports should include comprehensive record review, specific medical findings, clear rationale for necessity conclusions, and compliance with expert disclosure requirements.
Q: Can I stipulate to some facts but still challenge medical necessity?
A: Absolutely. Strategic stipulations can streamline trials by focusing on the core dispute while eliminating proof of undisputed elements.
Q: What happens if an insurance company’s expert doesn’t show up for trial?
A: Courts may deny adjournment requests without good cause. However, if proper reports were admitted through stipulation, live testimony may not be required.
Best Practices for No-Fault Medical Necessity Cases
For All Parties
- Invest early in comprehensive documentation
- Understand evidentiary requirements and alternatives
- Consider strategic stipulations to focus disputes
- Prepare for various proof methods
- Maintain realistic settlement discussions
Building Strong Cases
Whether defending or prosecuting medical necessity claims:
- Thorough record review forms the foundation
- Expert analysis must be comprehensive and specific
- Strategic presentation can determine outcomes
- Understanding precedent guides effective advocacy
Protecting Your Interests in No-Fault Cases
Medical necessity disputes in New York’s no-fault system require sophisticated understanding of both medical standards and legal procedures. The All Boro decision represents an evolution in how these cases can be efficiently resolved while maintaining rigorous evidentiary standards.
Whether you’re a medical provider seeking payment for necessary treatment, or an insurance company defending against questionable claims, the strategic lessons from All Boro are clear: comprehensive preparation and smart case presentation can achieve victory even in challenging circumstances.
If you’re dealing with no-fault insurance medical necessity disputes in Nassau County, Suffolk County, or the New York City area, contact our experienced legal team at 516-750-0595. We understand both the medical and legal complexities of these cases and can help protect your interests through strategic advocacy and comprehensive case preparation.
Related Articles
- Building strong opposition to conclusory medical necessity affidavits
- First Department victory demonstrating effective medical necessity defense strategies
- Understanding prima facie requirements in medical necessity cases
- Successful medical necessity motion practice in challenging venues
- New York No-Fault Insurance Law
Legal Update (February 2026): Since this 2012 decision, New York’s no-fault fee schedules and medical necessity standards have undergone multiple regulatory amendments, including updates to reimbursement rates and procedural requirements for expert witness disclosures. Additionally, court procedures under CPLR 4401 and related provisions may have been modified through subsequent rule changes and appellate decisions. Practitioners should verify current fee schedule provisions and medical necessity defense procedures before relying on the specific strategic approaches outlined in this older case.
